gemstone
Carnelian
SiO2 (Quartz variety)
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, orange to reddish-brown color, vitreous to waxy luster, microcrystalline crystal structure (chalcedony), conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.60-2.65.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Carnelian in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, orange to reddish-brown color, vitreous to waxy luster, microcrystalline crystal structure (chalcedony), conchoidal fracture, specific gravity of 2.60-2.65.
Formation & geological history
Forms in sedimentary environments from the deposition of silica-rich groundwater within cavities of pre-existing rocks, often volcanic or limestone, over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry, cabochons, beads, and carved into signet rings and talismans due to its rich history.
Geological facts
Carnelian has been used as a gemstone since ancient times, notably favored in ancient Egypt for amulets and in Roman signet rings to stamp wax seals.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinct translucent orange-to-red color and waxy luster; commonly sourced from India, Brazil, Uruguay, and the United States.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Black Opal Ring (Carved Opal)
Hydrated Silicon Dioxide (SiO2·nH2O)
gemstone
Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
gemstone